The Philippine National Police (PNP) leadership on Sunday reminded its personnel to strictly adhere to the provisions of the “Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees” as reiterated by the Civil Service Commission, especially during the Yuletide season.

PNP chief Gen. Dionardo Carlos vowed tougher sanctions against police operatives found involved in illegal activities.

“We can’t tolerate any form of bribe in the organization. The PNP has been living up to its core values to protect its integrity. We want to keep it that way,” Carlos said in a statement on Sunday in line with the organization’s “no-take policy”.

He cited Section 7 of Republic Act 6713 that states, “Public officials and employees shall not solicit or accept, directly or indirectly, any gift, gratuity, favor, entertainment, loan or anything of monetary value from any person in the course of their official duties or in connection with any operation being regulated by, or any transaction which may be affected by the functions of their office”.

Carlos clarified that simple gifts like food packs given to any police personnel as a token of gratitude for their service are allowed, but accepting valuable gifts that will merit favor to the giver is strictly prohibited.

He reminded all the PNP officers and personnel of the importance of preserving their dignity as law enforcers and public servants mandated to serve and protect the people and their communities.

The PNP maintains an E-Sumbong platform where the public can lodge their complaints through the hotline numbers 0917-847-5757 and 0919-160-1752. (PNA)